RNIB spreads the word on new book

Mar 11 2008 by Katie Bodinger, South Wales Echo

THE FIRST Welsh and English Braille dictionary was launched today.

RNIB Cymru has produced the 22-volume book, with funding from the Welsh Language Board.

The dictionary will help people of all ages across Wales to translate between English and Welsh.

Rachel Starritt, a 13-year-old pupil at Pencoed Comprehensive School in Bridgend, is one person who will be using the dictionary.

“It is really going to help me with my school work,” she said. “I will be able to find the right words in English and Welsh, just like my friends.”

Pam Williams, specialist teacher of the visually impaired at the school, said: “It will have a huge impact on the learning experience for Rachel and other children with sight loss. It will be a great help in including our pupils, allowing them to access the same information as their sighted peers.”

RNIB Cymru automatically transcribes words into Braille characters using Braille translation software. The Braille file needs to be proofread before the pages are produced on an embosser, and the charity relies heavily on trained volunteers for this time-consuming work.

Ruth Marks, director of RNIB Cymru added that the dictionary would be free to braille users across Wales.